Our appetite for the handmade, bespoke and sustainable is increasing, alongside that for foraged food and recycled clothing.

However, long before foraging stopped being an ambiguous word, the Peak District Artisans (PDA) got together and ensured that not only did people have the opportunity to buy something uniquely hand-crafted, they supported each other as they embarked on their creative journey.

Now, three decades later, the Peak District Artisans are an established collective that exhibits all over the county. However, undoubtedly the highlight of the year for the group will be on July 29-31, 2022 when they’ll be showcasing their work at the Devonshire Dome in Buxton for the prestigious Great Dome Art & Design Fair.

Ever since the inaugural fair was opened at the beautifully restored Buxton Dome by the then patron Dowager Duchess of Devonshire in 2008, the event has grown in popularity.

Deborah ‘Debo’ Devonshire, the last of the celebrated Mitford girls, was a huge champion of local arts until her death in 2014. Following keenly in her footsteps is her grandson, heir to Chatsworth and patron Lord Burlington, who will be visiting over the weekend.

Buxton Great Dome Art Fair has become the must-visit place for people to add some beautiful and unique handmade pieces to the home, to buy stunning handcrafted jewellery, or discover something exquisitely painted to hang on the wall. Expect finely-crafted prints, pottery, glassware, textiles, jewellery as well as demonstrations and a chance to chat to artisans about their work.

This year, 35 members of the PDA will be taking part in the fair, among them new member Katherine Rhodes, an artist and printmaker. Past winners of the Emerging Artist Award – Rebecca Perry (potter) and Bethan Nadin (painting) – will also be exhibiting, alongside other new members from last year – Judy Gilley (painter) and Terry Baker (photographer).

One of the highlights of the weekend will be the Postcard Raffle, where visitors have the chance  to win a small piece of original art. It is always popular and this year the proceeds will be donated to the Air Ambulance Association and the Peak District Mountain Rescue Organisation.

A spokesperson for Peak District Artisans says: “The Great Dome Art & Design Fair gives people the chance to demonstrate their support for artists, many of whom have struggled to survive during the pandemic. But above all it is a fantastic way to celebrate the artistic life of the region and all the amazing talent which we have here.”

By Janet Reeder

 

The Buxton Great Dome Art & Design Fair – July 29-31, 2022

Admission: £2

For further information visit https://www.peakdistrictartisans.co.uk/events/